Far Eastern University delivered a statement win over National University, grinding out a 25-23, 25-23, 20-25, 21-25, 22-20 victory in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Sunday, March 22. The Lady Tamaraws showed resilience in a match that stretched to two hours and 46 minutes, refusing to yield despite multiple momentum swings.

The victory allowed FEU to climb to a 6-3 record, drawing level with NU in the standings as both teams now share second place. More importantly, it served as redemption after their first-round loss where they squandered a two-set lead and absorbed a reverse sweep.

The rematch unfolded as a battle of endurance and discipline, with both teams trading control across five tightly contested sets. FEU’s ability to stay composed under pressure ultimately spelled the difference in one of the most intense matches of the season.

Patience pays off for FEU in crucial stretch

FEU assistant coach Manolo Refugia emphasized patience as the defining factor, especially in the second round where teams have already adjusted to each other’s tendencies. That mindset became crucial in the deciding fifth set where execution mattered more than momentum.

National University threatened to steal the match after earning the first two match points, putting FEU on the brink of another heartbreaking collapse. However, the Lady Tamaraws held firm, banking on discipline and trust to extend the set and regain control.

Lovely Lopez rose to the occasion, delivering eight points in the final frame to finish with 19 points along with 25 excellent receptions and 14 digs. Her steady presence helped stabilize FEU during the most critical stretch of the match.

FEU generated multiple match-point opportunities and refused to panic despite several failed attempts to close it out. Jazlyn Ellarina eventually sealed the victory with a service ace that landed right on the line, catching the NU defense off guard and ending the marathon contest.

Balanced attack lifts Lady Tamaraws past defending champs

Faida Bakanke powered FEU with 22 points built on strong attacking and blocking, while also contributing defensively with 11 digs. Her consistent scoring gave the Lady Tamaraws a reliable option throughout the match.

Alyzza Devosora added 16 points and provided support on both ends, while Marga Encarnacion anchored the floor defense with 30 excellent digs. The backcourt effort proved vital in keeping rallies alive against NU’s aggressive offense.

Setter Tin Ubaldo orchestrated FEU’s system with 20 excellent sets while adding seven points of her own. The balanced distribution allowed multiple hitters to find rhythm and kept the NU defense guessing.

On the other side, NU leaned on rookie Sam Cantada, who finished with 20 points alongside strong reception and defensive numbers. Vange Alinsug and Arah Panique added 19 and 16 points, respectively, to keep the Lady Bulldogs competitive deep into the match.

Middle blockers Chams Maaya and Alexa Mata chipped in double-digit scoring outputs, while Abe Pono facilitated the offense with 27 excellent sets. Despite the loss, NU showed its championship pedigree by pushing FEU to the limit.

FEU now turns its attention to another key matchup as it seeks to sustain its momentum in the second round. NU, meanwhile, aims to regroup quickly as the race for the top spots continues to tighten.